How long on average does a civil case for assaulted at work take to settle?

[chappy1980]

I was assaulted at a year ago and have a case against the company I was working for. My solicitor has said liability is not an issue because of evidence and the fact that the person was convicted at trial in a criminal court, but I have been hit really hard financially by this and my solicitor hasn't really gave me a rough idea on how long and I would be grateful if anybody could give me an idea because I dont know how long I can last financially before I lose everything.

[LyndaB]

My friend was assaulted at work, so badly that she had to retire. It took years and years for her case to be settled, as her employer (the local authority) didn't accept liability. She eventually won her case but we I said, it took years. this happened about 17 years ago, maybe it doesn't take as long these days.

[lcg]

depends on the case. with so few details, it would be very difficult to say.

[paddywak]

As Icg says it depends on the case I've had friends who had cases settled very quickly yet others have been strung out for years.

[bednobs]

hiya, in your previous post you have said you were advised it would take 3-7 years. Who advised you this, and do you have cause to doubt them?

[Nini74]

I asume this is a cliam for damages for the injuries sustained by you? has liability been admitted? if so, ask your Solicitor to request an interim payment for you if you're struggling with finances - it will come off the damages you receive at the end of the claim, but would certainly help now it seems. The time a claim takes depends a lot on the injuries - if you're having continuing problems, it may take longer to settle the claim as you will need to receive any recommended treatment and get a prognosis for recovery from the Consultant. I have a couple of claims which have been going on for around 7 years because the ongoing treatment and surgeries have meant that it's not possible to assess the value of the claims. Your Solicitor will be able to tell you a better timescale once the medical evidence is received.

[EDDIE51]

Yes, a relative was injured at work and she got an interim payment to cover her expenses This was deducted from the final settlement, ask your solicitor
Are you getting any form of benefits by the way? if you are unable to work you should qualify for sickness/ disability benefits of some sort that will help until you get the compensation. I know many on AB are against 'benefit scroungers' but your case sounds like a genuine one and you should qualify for some form of financial help.

[chappy1980]

Thanks for the replies everyone, Eddie I am not on benefits because I am doing a different job now as I could not return to my old job and I am on about 10% of the money I used to earn and after 6 months off work after the assault this has hit me hard. nini yes liability has been admitted, thanks.

[EDDIE51]

10% of your old wage ?
The minimum wage is £6.20 an hour so you were earning £62 an hour? if so what the hell were you doing, premier league football ?
You can still claim benefits such as working tax credit and housing/council tax benefit if you are working full time but on a low wage.

[chappy1980]

Eddie51, I had my own construction company and had earned 82k the year previous and have now earned 8k in this 12 months, I will contact the council tomorrow for the other matters, thanks.